Description
Denomination: Copper entrance token or ticket. not coinage
Period: Georgian
Date: 1776
Origin: Probably London
Condition: VF+ stamped 47 on back. patina
Obverse: Drury Lane around date and first gally’. pellet decoration at centre P to left of this
Reverse: Plain except stamped 47
Size and Weight: 32mm. 9.44g
References: D&W 19/208var
Features and Provenance: This token is ex Noonan’s from their sale of the collection of Philip Jones. Previously from the A. Clunes collection 1972.
Drury Lane. the famous home of the theatre of the same name. was named after Robert Drury once he had constructed a mansion there in 1500. The theatre itself was built in 1663 after Charles II (known for his need for entertainment) gave it a patent in 1672. hence it became known as the ‘The King’s Playhouse.’ Despite it being the first to have a safety curtain. it was rebuilt three times after fires. The metal tokens were used as entry tickets giving the patron a standing or sitting location. I’m sure they were often taken as mementos and repeatedly had to be replaced. giving a chance for design changes and the use of the monarch’s portrait in some cases!
Condition Summary. This varies with the age of coin and there are grades between
Uncirculated (U). As struck with no traces of wear
Extremely Fine (EF). Very slight traces of wear. all parts of legend etc present. visible and clear
Very Fine (VF). Some signs of wear on the higher parts of the relief. all parts of legend etc present. but maybe worn
Fine (F). Wear on the coin and parts of legend etc may be missing or not visible
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